10. Mr. R. C. Mitchellasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the new Government of Portugal regarding the implementation of the United Nations sanctions resolution on Rhodesia.
Mr. James CallaghanI have discussed this matter with Dr. Soares.
Despite the economic significance of Rhodesia to Mozambique, I am satisfied that the new Portuguese Government are fully aware of the importance of the issues, and that they will do whatever they can to help.
Mr. MitchellDoes my right hon. Friend think that the new Government in Portugal will have sufficient control of the new Government in Mozambique to stop up the loophole there? Will he also have talks with the Austrian Government about the alleged sanction-breaking activities of the Austrian State-owned steel company?
Mr. CallaghanRhodesia and Mozambique have close economic ties. The Portuguese Government are aware of the difficulties that arise here. I believe that it is their desire to assist our policy in Rhodesia, and I am satisfied that Dr. Soares should want to do so. I have some information about the Austrian matter. Perhaps my hon. Friend will table a Question so that I can give him a proper reply.
§ Mr. Ronald BellIf we are to have ideological sanctions, would it not be better if they were directed against Uganda and African nationalist countries which are dictatorships?
Mr. CallaghanWe have to take a clear line on all these issues. I do not disagree with the hon. and learned Member. As for the failure of my hon. Friend the Member for Southampton, Itchen (Mr. Mitchell) to get a Question past the Table, perhaps he and I can correspond on the matter.